MM 10.22: Mike Locksley speaks for first time since dismissal in conversation with ESPN

After reflecting on his eight-year role as Maryland football’s head coach, Mike Locksley expressed in a conversation with ESPN, among other things, that he feels “at peace” after parting ways with the university and refused to resign from his role.

In an article, published Thursday afternoon, ESPN Senior College Football Insider Heather Dinich covered Locksley’s comments from his conversation with ESPN regarding his reaction to the decision, prior challenges with the team and future expectations.

“To be honest I kind of knew it was coming, just didn’t know when,” Locksley said. “I’m not mad about leaving. I’m not. I’m at peace with it because I know it’s better than what it was when I got here. A player died right before I got here and this place was burnt to the ground. Stabilized it, went to three bowls, NIL kicks in, and wasn’t prepared for it.”

In addition to his satisfaction, Locksley also expressed the tiresome nature of his former job.

“I’m done with the heavy laboring of building … and taking a job that’s going to wear me out,” Locksley said. “I can’t do it anymore.

Locksley then went on to describe his meeting with Maryland athletic director Jim Smith on Sunday and his subsequent departure from his office.

Later in her article, Dinich wrote how Locksley claimed to have reflected on his accountability and shortcomings to which he concluded that failing to find consistency with staff, naming previous staff members Scottie Montgomery, Jon Hoke and Dan Enos, along with the rapidly evolving nature of NIL.

Finally, Locksley said he believes he will probably end up doing television commentary to see if it is a good fit. However, he made clear that as of now, he is looking to continue his career either in the NFL or as a coordinator for another college program where “you can win a championship at.”

In other news

Maryland women’s soccer held on for a 1-1 draw at No. 24 Michigan. Noah Ghelli covered the game.

No. 1 Maryland field hockey lost its first game of the season at No. 2 Northwestern, 4-2. Roman Brunetti had the story.

Smith and Maryland administration will have their decision for head coach hotly debated, but the quality of the job in College Park is up for debate as well.

Maryland men’s basketball officially announced its throwback uniforms in honor of the 2002 national championship team.

No. 11 Maryland men’s soccer will take on Ohio State on Oct. 24 at 7 p.m. at Ludwig Stadium.

The Terps had two players selcted to TopDrawerSoccer’s midseason top 100 rankings.

Freshman forward Baba Oladotun shared his feelings regarding the transition into college basketball ahead of his official Maryland debut.